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Wilfried Nancy declared he had no concerns about the sack, maintaining, “I believe we are extremely close to changing our fortunes,” even after edging perilously close to being fired with a comprehensive defeat by Rangers.

A Second-Half Capitulation Sees Derby Loss

The home side were ahead their oldest rivals at the break but a disastrous second period let the Gers to pull level on points with the current Scottish Premiership champions. Nancy, who was appointed from the MLS, has now been in charge for six setbacks in his last eight matches.

“There is unity at the club,” stated Nancy.

Asked directly about the speculation, he said: “It’s not on my mind. I concentrate on finding ways to help my team to be good on details.

Protest Outside Parkhead

Celtic’s support displayed their anger – directed at the hierarchy – by protesting outside the stadium. Club directors are reportedly likely to bring back the interim manager, who had a fruitful temporary stint before Nancy was hired, if the Frenchman were sacked.

“The outcomes [that leads to pressure]. That is the truth for the moment. However by saying this is the reality, that is not a sign that I am a defeatist guy. No. What I mean we are on the cusp, extremely close to turn things around.”

Focus on the Details

Nancy highlights the fact Celtic play well for 45 minutes at a time. Indeed, if not for poor finishing they could have been better than 1-0 up. “There were positives aside from the fact that we haven’t scored our chances,” he said. “I know that we lost, but it's important to stay objective.

“The standard we had at stages was really, really, really high. This is the reality. I could not speak so positively if it was not the case. Therefore, regarding outcomes, I said we've seen this before. That’s why I feel a change is coming to a shift in fortunes. Right now: the fine margins.”

“We produced plenty of positives that we did, like today again. However it’s about performing for 90 minutes. My narrative would not be if it was not the case. This is why I am a big believer we’re going to be able to get back on track.”

Röhl’s Cautious Response

The victorious boss refused to contemplate a title charge despite what felt like a statement victory. “Step by step, and we can develop something here,” he said. “The belief in the group is excellent.”